Pregnancy and birth

Supporting women to be as healthy as they can during pregnancy (and before conception) and during the post-natal period is important for pregnancy outcomes and the lifelong health of their children. This includes the importance of

• taking vitamin D and folic acid supplements
• increasing the uptake of vaccinations offered during pregnancy to protect the health of mothers and their babies
• supporting pregnant women who smoke to give up and stay smoke free during their pregnancy and afterwards
• promoting the importance of a healthy balanced diet
• not drinking alcohol during pregnancy
• access to contraception after having a baby. 

Read more on the government guidance on Health matters: reproductive health and pregnancy planning [external link]

Primary care, maternity services and health visitors play a crucial role during this important time. Delivery of the Best Start in Life plan will help to drive an improvement in pregnancy and maternal outcomes.